The Most Common Childhood Illnesses

Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease

Hand-foot-mouth disease, or HFMD, is commonly caused by the coxsackievirus, but can be caused by other viruses. It is most often found in children under age five and is extremely contagious. It is common in the spring, summer, and fall, and lasts for seven to ten days. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, mouth sores, red spots on the hands and feet, and reduced hunger.Over-the-counter remediescan help alleviate some symptoms. Though the name is similar, it is not the same and cannot be contracted from the animal disease, foot and mouth disease. Once a child has had HFMD, they are considered immune to that particular virus. However, they may still be able to contract it through one of the other viruses that cause it. Hydration is imperative when it comes to treatment.